[Local reconstructive possibilities following infections of the lower leg and foot]

Basic rule: slough removal, treatment of infection, closure of the defect. Already existing infection: antiseptic solutions, rarely or never antibiotics. Measurement of wound pH (pH 6-8). According to indications, split thickness skin graft, in large defects mesh-graft. Reverdin grafts only in poorly healing wounds. For preparation of defect closure, silicone foam is very effective. If bone is exposed, we still use cross leg flaps and myocutaneous flaps besides more modern methods of plastic surgery. Distant flaps, like tube flaps from the abdomen have only historical interest.